Golf game



May l, 1934 F. L. Fox n AL 1,957,331

GOLF GAME Filed NOV. 50, 1928 6 Sheets-Sheet 1 May 1, 1934. F. l.. Fox ET Al. 1,957,331

GOLF GAME Filed NOV. 30, 1928 6 Sheets-Sheet 2 wf QJM 6 Sheets-Sheet 5 May l, 1934. F. L. FOX Er AL GOLF GAME Filed Nov. 30, 192B May 1, 1934. F. l.. Fox Er AL 1,957,331

GOLF GAME Filed Nov. 30. 1928 6 Sheets-Sheet 4 aum,

May l, 1934. F, Fox ET AL 1,957,331

GOLF GAME Filed Nov. 50, 1928 6 Sheets-Sheet 5 l /v//g May l, 1934. F. Fox El' AL GOLF GAME Filed NOV. 30, 1928 6 Sheets-Sheet 6 S ATET FES GGLF GAME Frederick L. Fox, Washington, D. C., and Frank C. Gibson, Fairfax, Va.

Application November 30, 1928, Serial No. 322,885

33 Claims. (Cl. 273--87) This invention relates to an improved game of ing, and appropriately instructive, for it will the species embodying a game board whose surteach both juveniles and older persons the rudiface is printed, painted, or otherwise patterned ments and etiquette of an actual game of golf to provide a complete playing field intended to on the out-of-doors course. accommodate one or more indicators which are Introducing further a salient object, we dee- 60'A movable successively over predetermined sectors it advisable to mention the development of an and areas of the playing iield in a systematic and invention of this class which is regarded as a orderly manner from an established starting mechanical achievement in the art, one which is Y point to a distant finishing point, dependng on practicable, modern and distinctive, both as to lo the action of a player-actuated device, and it has idea and result, highly eiiicient in performance, G5

more particular reference to a structural orsmooth and quiet in operation, previously unganization of this class which is made and deequaled in the art, and capable of fulfilling the signed to provide a goh game. requirements of a structure of this class in a sat- In carrying out the invention, we provide a isfactory and suitable manner. 15 base in the nature of a game board, and this is In the drawings: 7'()4v preferably constructed in the form of a low table Figure i is a top plan view, showing diagramto rest iirmly on a ioor or other support at a matically, a golf game constructed in accordsuitable elevation. The face of 'the board is deance with the present invention.

signed and charted to represent a miniature Figure 2 is a fragmentary view taken on a hori- 20 soli course. .Associated with, and systematically Zontal plane beneath the top of the game board, 75vv movable over the distinct sectors of the course showing the single electric motor and power are appropriately fashioned indicators. In additransmission means. tion, one or more impact devices are provided Figure 3 is a fragmentary contracted top plan and constructed to be actuated by the players. view, in elevation and section, showing one sec- Each device includes a movable impact element tion or sector of the playing field. 80-

(preferably a regulation golf ball.) intended to Figure 4 is a view in section and elevation be actuated by a blow from a conventional golf showing a novel impact device with a cover plate club and constructed to operate in conjunction of the mechanism casing removed.

with and coincident to the indicators in proper Figure 5 is a top view showing a return speed 3o relation so that the indicators automatically and regulating governor structure for the impact eleg5 properly record the degree of movement and powment. er of the blow imparted to the impact device, Figure e is a horizontal sectional view taken whereby the indicators move a distance in proper approximately upon the plane of the line 6-6` of proportion to the power of the blow imparted to Figure 4.

g5 the impact element. Figure ".1 is a vertical sectional and fragmentary 90 A primary aim is to generally improve upon View taken approximately upon the plane of the known patented and marketed gaines of this line 7-7 of Figure 6. class by providing one which is characterized by Figure 8 is a view taken upon the plane of the a number of distinguishable features such as line 8-8 of Figure 4.

4:3 intimately 'cooperate in producing a novel and Figure 9 is a cross sectional view taken approx- 95 new organization of details so associated as to imately upon the plane of the line 9-9 of Figproduce a complete structure providing the senure 3, sational effects of the actual game of golf as Figure 10 is a view in section and elevation played on an out-of-doors course. showing a novel selective clutch structure con- 3 We have evolved and reduced to practice a stituting an important factor of the invention. 1g@

game which may be easily learned, one which is Figure 11 is a horizontal section taken on the designed and patterned in a manner to make it line 11-11 of Figure l0.

entireiy realistic, serviceable, dependable and Figure 12 is a fragmentary detailed view obpositive in operation, and one which requires serving a portion of one of the pulleys of the oprudent judgement, and skill such as not only clutch structure. 105

familiarize the players with the actual game, Figure 13 is a view in elevation, on an enlarged but enhances their capabilities, enthusiam, and scale, of one of the movable indicators. skill. Figure 14 is likewise a View of the same indiy The structure, while primarily an amusement cator, with a portion broken away and shown'in 55 device, is further desirable in that it is fascinan section to disclose the construction more plainly. 110

Figure 15 is a horizontal sectional view somewhat similar to Figure 2, showing a modied form of power transmission means.

Figure 16 is a view similar to Figure 15 with certain of the details in Figure 15 eliminated to disclose the endless power cable means.

Figure 17 is a View, of a contracted type, taken approximately upon the plane of the line 17--17 of Figure 15.

Figure 18 is a detailed view of one of the movn able indicators employed in this embodiment of the invention.

Figure 19 is a vertical section through Figure 18, the View being taken at approximately right angles to Figure 18.

Figure 20 is a fragmentary side elevational View of the game table showing a dilferent ernbodiment of electro-mechanical motor control de- Vice.

Figure 21 is a horizontal sectional view taken approximately upon the plane of the line 21 21 of Figure 20.

Figure 22 is an exaggerated cross sectional view taken approximately upon the plane of the line 22-22 of Figure 21.

Figure 23 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional and elevational View taken substantially on the line 23-23 of Figure 22.

Figure 24 is a transverse or horizontal. section taken on the line 24-24 of Figure 23.

Figure 25 is a detail View of the pressure relief valve and adjustable vent means.

Figure 26 is a horizontal section on the line 26--26 of Figure 25.

The base or ganze` board One of the principal details of this invention is that part which is generally mentioned as a base, the same being designated by the reference character 25. The base is preferably in the form of a game board of suitable proportions, and is more precisely in the nature of a table having short supporting legs so as to dispose the board close to the door or other supporting surface. As before intimated, the surface of this board is charted or otherwise laid off to provide a playing iield commonly called a golf course or the links, In laying off the field, the figures and representations depicted are of a general diversied nature. For instance, there are representations of various forms of hazards representing natural and artificial obstacles, thus lending an appearance of reality and appeal to this part of the structure. The present board is laid off to provide a nine hole golf course and the holes are here distinguished as individual sectors or sections arranged in proper sequence as indicated by the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, etc. Each sector embodies a fairway 26, at one end of which is the teeing ground 27 and at the opposite end of which is the putting green 28. This green 28 also includes the customary cup or hole 29, it being the object of this game, as in the usual out-ofdoors game, to move the indicator in the least number of strokes from the teeing ground into the cup on the putting green.

In accordance with the present invention, the fairway 26 is made up as shown for instance in Figure 9. Here the reference character 30 designates an embedded or inlaid plate having a series of spaced parallel slots 31, 32, 33 and 34. This is arranged as a cover over a partitioned box 35 suspended from the under side of the board and providing a housing or casing for a plurality of power transmission and propulsion cables,

all of which are designated by the reference characters 36. These are arranged directly beneath the slots 31 to 34 inclusive. 'Ihe reference character 37 designates freely rotatable star wheels which overlie the cables as shown and prevent displacement of the cables through the slots as will be hereinafter seen. Obviously, the cables 36 serve to move the indicators 38 along the fairway. Incidentally, it will be noted that we provide at least four distinguishable indicators 38 in order to permit the game to be played single, twosome, threesome, and foursome.

The field indicators The indicators are preferably in the form of miniature golf balls. For instance, as shown in Figures 13 and 14 (showing one form of indicator) the ball 39 is mounted on a small circular base 40 having a plurality of prongs 41 which straddle the operating cable and which are held in place by a retention spring 42. As indicated in Figure 1 and also again in Figure 3,the indicators are to be of distinguishable colors, each player being represented by his selected color. It has been found convenient for instance as shown in Figure 3 to provide colored markers 43, 44, 45 and 46 at the teeing ends of the slots on each sector. At 43 the marker is blue, at 44 it is red, at 45 green, at 46 white. A manuaily regulated pointer generally is designated by the reference character 47 in Figure 1 and this is selectively positioned according to the particular color being played at the time. (This pointer 47 is seen in Figure 10 where it is associated with other details to be hereinafter described.) It may be mentioned here, as also shown in Figure 1, that the pointer cooperates directly with a set of four complemental colored disks 43', 44', 45', and 46. The utilization of this pointer, the colored markers, and disks, will be clear as the description proceeds.

The electroy mechanical player actuated means While considering this general base construction in Figure 1 we also call attention to reference character 48 which designates generally a player actuated impact device at the left, and 49 a corresponding device at the right. It is proper to say here that 48 designates a device for a right hand player and 49 a device for a left hand player. Thus the game is adapted for use by both right and left hand players. Moreover, the reference character 5() designates an operating means for a motor reversing switch comprising a turnable pointer cooperable with indexes 5l and 52 associated with a reversible electric motor to be hereafter described. The index 51 is for forward driving, that is, movement of the indicator 38 in a direction from left to right along fairway No. 1. The button 52 is for reverse of the motor for movement of the indicator in a retrograde or return direction from right to left along the same fairway. The advantage of these features will also be clear as the description proceeds.

Motor and selective clutch structure Closely associated with the features 50, 51 and 52 (Figure 1) is an electric motor 53 of the reversible type shown in Figure 2. This is mounted on a hanger plate 54 in a position to operate a series or gang of pulleys. In this connection attention is naturally directed to Figure 10 wherein this pulley construction is shown. The structure here is characterized particularly by a novel "5 in detail the impact devices 48 and 49.

selective clutch structure. It is proper, however, to note first that designates the motor shaft provided ,with a worm 56 meshing with the threads of a worm gear 57 mounted on a worm drive sleeve 58. This sleeve is journaled for rotation in appropriate bearings 59 and it is provided with diametrically opposite longitudinal slots 60. Mounted for operation between 'the bearings and surrounding the sleeve are the idlerdrive pulleys 61, 62, 63 and 64, respectively, which cooperate with the power cables 36. The hub portions of the pulleys are formed to provide key-ways 65 for registration with the slots 69 and for cooperation with a pair of spring-pressed pivotally mounted clutch nngers 66. These ngers are mounted on a slidable and rotary core or shaft member 67 which is plainly shown is actuated normally in a direction from left to right by a spring 68 in order that the pointed spindle 69 on the right hand end may be selectively engaged with a manually adjusted segmental cam 79. This segmental cam is carried by a shaft 71 which also carries the aforesaid regulation pointer 47. Moreover as shown in Figure 1l the peripheral edge of this segment is formed with circumferentially spaced and properly arranged depressions or seats 61a, 62a, 63a, and 64a adapted to be matched respectively with the complemental pulleys 61, 62, 63 and 64. In addition there is a neutral pocket or depression at 72 in which the spindle 69 is normally projected. It is obvious that the segmental element acts as a cam and moves the clutch fingers 66 one step further as it is turned in the direction from right to left in Figure l1. In other words when the spindle 69 is received in the seat 61a this brings the fingers 66 into position to clutch the pulley 61 so that it operates While the remaining pulleys idle. The free ends of the fingers are so made as to be projected through the slots 60 to snap into the key-ways 65 in an obvious manner.

'Power cables It is to be noted in connection with this pulley drive and clutch structure that the cables 36 are of endless form, extending over a series of supplemental horizontally disposed guide pulleys 73 somewhat as shown in Figure 2 whereby a single electric motor, gearing and pulley'and clutch structure may be properly used for actuating the indicators irrespective of the sector on which they are being played at the time. While considering Figure 2 it will be observed that 74 designates generally a reversing switch for the motor 53 which is controlled as before stated by the means 50 as shown in Figure 1. In other words, when the pointer is opposite the index button 51 the motor is actuated to drive the indicators forwardly and when it is opposite the button 52 the direction of the motor is rc- We consider it appropriate to describe now Of course these devices are exactly the same in construction except that the elements are reversed in order that they may be employed by right and left hand players respectively. Hence, a description of one device will suflice for both. The primary details of the device are seen in Figures 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Broadly, each device embodies a motor-control switch so made and timed in its operation as to cause the movable indicators (through the medium of the motor and selective clutch structure) on the playing eld to move a distance proportionate to the power of the blow imparted byv the golf club to the impact element of the impact device. In accomplishing this, we have found it convenient, in one instance, to employ, as seen in Figure 4, a box-like casing 75 in which the motor control switch 76 is mounted. rihis switch includes a stationary contact 77 and a movable Contact 78. The movable contact is cooperable with what is hereinafter described as a travelling disk 79. This disk is threaded and operable on a screw-threaded portion 80 of a rotary shaft 81 journaled in appropriate bearings in the casing. On one side the disk is formed with a notch which rides up and down on a stationary retaining key or rib 82 as shown in Figure 6. There is also a peripheral notch of a relatively large degree on one side of the disk adjacent to which a bracket 83 is mounted to position it for cooperation with the spring contact 78 of the switch. The reference character 84 designates a return spring and 85 designates generally the movable player-actuated unit of the impact device. This unit comprises an arm 86 carried by the lower end of the shaft 81 and in turn carrying a regulation golf ball 87. It is to be noted that the golf ball is connected to the arm through the medium of a shock absorbing and coupling spring 88. It is evident that as soc-n as the club strikes the ball 87 the arm 86 is moved in the proper direction against the tension of the spring 84. This imparts rotation to the shaft 81 and starts the disk 79 110 to thread its way upwardly, thus releasing the spring contact 78 and permitting the motor circuit to be closed. This starts the electric motor 53. It is intended that the shaft 81 as well as the arm 86 shall move rapidly in the 115 proper direction, but proportionately slow in a retrograde direction. It is important that the impact unit travels freely and without undue resistance in a forward direction in order to permit fair recordation of the drive.

The indicator begins its movement as soon as the motor is started and continues its movement in the same direction while the arm 86 is returning to its normal position. In other words, the disk 79 must move upwardly and 125 return to its normal position before the switch 76 is again opened and the motor stopped. The means for retarding the return of the travelling disk is detailed in Figures 4 and 5 wherein it will be observed that 89 designates a pawl and 13G ratchet structure, 90 a gear on the shaft 81 meshing with a smaller gear 91 on a stub shaft. The stub shaft also carries a larger gear 92 in mesh with a complemental smaller gear 93. The gear 93 constitutes a part of a speed regulating governor. As seenin Figure 5 this governor includes a pair of weighted arms 94 having friction brake shoes 95 cooperable with a stationary brake band 96 fastened to the casing. The pawl and ratchet mechanism 89 permits the shaft 81 to rotate rapidly in a forward direction. When however the spring 84 begins to act to return the arm 86, the gearing train is brought into' play and this together with the governor and brake structure and retards the 145 return rotation of the shaft 8l.

Automatic stop It is important to note that the reference character 97 designates a stop pin whose lower 150 :played by four persons.

end extends down through an opening in the bottom of the casing and into the path of movement of the arm 86. A spring 98 surrounds the pin and tends to normally move it upward and to retract the protruding lower end into or ush with the casing and to dispose said projecting portion out of the path of movement of the arm 86 before the arm completes its iirst revolution. Associated with this pin 97 is pivoted an arm 99 which as shown in Figure 7 carries a vertically disposed presser pin 100. This pin extends up through an opening in the partition 101 where it is engaged with the travelling disk 79. Consequently, as the disk is fed down on the screw threads of the shaft 8l, it engages the pin and forces it downwardly. In turn this reacts to move the stop pin 97 downwardly against the tension of the spring 98 where the protruding end is projected into the path of movement of the arm 86. The parts here described are so related that as soon as the shaft 81 begins to turn from the impact applied to the ball 87, the presser pin 100 is allowed to move upwardly at a rate of speed to permit the pin 97 to be retracted in time to remove the protruding end thereof from the path or" movement of the arm 86. The idea here is to have a stop pin to normaly hold the arm in a predetermined position at the start but to permit this stop to become ineffective at the proper moment so as not to interfere with the complete revolutions of the arm 86, and the structure is simplified by directly associating it with the disk 79 in order that the disk will have the multiple function of automatically releasing the stop pin, resetting the stop pin, and automatically opening and closing the motor control switch 76.

Operation of structure thus far described At this time we desire to introduce in a brief way, the operation of the complete game so iar described. For sake of illustration it is to be assumed that the game now to be played will be First, each player must select his designating or distinguishing color. It will be remembered that we provide at least four distinct colors and correspondingly colored golf ball indicators. In order that the explanation may lbe simplified, we will confine the language to play on a single sector. Take for example, the first sector (No. l) on the golf course. The colored markers are disposed in proper order at the teeing end of the slots in the fairway. For example. the

jwhite marker 46 will be placed opposite the slot 31, the green marker 45 opposite the slot 32, the red marker 44 opposite the slot 33 and the blue marker 43 opposite the slot 34. This is the order in which the markers occur as seen in Figure 3. This arrangement of markers is repeated in the order named on each of the succeeding sectors of the course. Of course, the aforesaid clutch strueture is such in construction as to permit the plays to be carried on in any desired order. As a matter of convenience however we will assume that the pointer 47 has been placed opposite the disk 43' (see Fig. l) which represents the slot 34 in Figure 3. Incidentally the colored disks 41 to 45 inclusive, are independent of, but cooperate with the colored markers 4l to 45, in the color scheme utilized. By thus turning the pointer 47, the shaft 7l is turned to aetuate the segmental cam 70 and to allow the pointed end of the core 67 to drop into the depression 64 (see Fig. ll). Thus through the medium of the sliding and expansible action of the clutch lingers G6, the pulley' 64 (see Fig. 10) is now keyed to the worm sleeve 58. Consequently as soon as the motor starts into operation, this pulley will rotate carrying the blue indicator ball along the slot 34.

Now assuming that a right handed player, who has selected blue. takes his club in hand and drives the impact ball 87. The power of the blow imparted to the golf ball will depend upon the character of play that he deems advisable to make at the time. Naturally it would be his aim, if this is the iirst shot, to regulate the drive to cause the indicator ball to move a considerable distance along the fairway and into close proximity to the putting green. As is already apparent when the ball 87 has been struck, the arm 86 swings freely in a clockwise or forward direction a number ot turns depending upon the power of the blow struck. Through this swinging action of the arm and through the medium of the aforesaid travelling disk 79 in Figure 4, it is obvious that the disk begins to travel upwardly and simultaneously release the stop pin 97 and allows the motor circuit controlling switch to close. Thus as soon as the motor is set into operation the pulley G4 begins to turn and propel the cable 36 which is trained thereover. Obviously, since the blue indicator ball has already been placed in position and attached to this cable, it will move along the fairway toward the putting green.

It is also evident that the return swinging oi the arm is retarded by the ratchet and governor' mechanism already described. it is important to note too that the stop pin is so timed and operated that it will move up fiush with the bottom of the housing just before the bali arm makes the rst revolution and by so doing it permits the ball arm to make any number of turns. Also, this stop pin lowers to stopping position in time to bring the arm to rest when the travel- I.

ling disk has returned to its normal starting point and again opens the motor control switch 76. It is clear that the clutch structure is such as to permit keying of any one of the drive pulleys to the drive sleeve and this depends on the l drive again, it is possible that he might hit the ball 87 too hard which will cause the indicator 38 to travel to a point beyond the cup. As it is impossible for the indicator ball to move further, the cable 'which carries it and which received between the prongs and spring will simply slip i through the prongs until the ball carrying arm comes back to rest and the circuit to the motor is broken. This is the end of an over-shot drive. When this particular player again takes his turn to drive, it will be necessary for him to resort to a reversal of the motor in order that the indicator ball will travel in a return direction to produce a desired reverse drive. As before explained, this is done through the medium of the motor reverse switch 74 and the control means 50 located on the top of the board. This will temporarily reverse the direction of travel of the cable with the result that the ball will move in a direction toward the cup. To make another foruns zoY

" lgears 108.

ward drive, the player must reset the motor reverse switch for forward driving. It is apparent with this arrangement that the player does not attempt to drive the impact ball in an opposite direction, but continues to drive in the same di rection and retains the same position as under normal conditions.

Modified power trarisrriissioii and indicator' propulsion means It is within the scope and conception of this invention to provide a more positive type of propulsion means for moving the indicator ball along the various fairways. The means in question is depicted in Figures to 19 inclusive. By directing attention to these figures it will be seen that the game board is represented by the reference character 102 in Figure 17. It is equipped with an embedded slotted metal plate formed in the fairway in a manner already described and as indicated in dotted lines in Figure 15. In accordance with this torni of the invention we utilize a series of four feed screws located in spaced parallelism under the slots in the plate and these Iscrews are journaled for rotation at one end in a bracket 105 and at the opposite end in a bracket 106 as seen in Figure 17. On the last named ends, the feed screws or shafts are provided with beveled gears 107 in mesh with complemental beveled Each gear 108 is mounted on a stub shaft 1.09 carrying an upper grooved pulley 110 and a lower pulley 111. Endless cables 112 are connected with the pulleys 110 while individual .power cables are provided at 113 for driving the pulleys 111 and the stub shafts 109. The cables 113 receive motion from the individual pulleys 114 of the motor driven clutch structure. This clutch structure is the same already described. Moreover, the regulating means and motor are 'the same and are indicated by the same reference l characters. 1n Figure l5 we have shown three groups or individual series of feed shafts for three sectors or fairways on the golf course and these are disposed in a plane above the endlesscable assembly for transmitting power to the various sectors from the single electric motor. The showing is somewhat diagrammatic and fragmentary, and in Figure le the feed screws are omitted to disclose the general arrangement of training the cables over the various supplemental drive pulley-s 110. The guide pulleys are represented by the reference characters 115.

The revised indicator Referring to Figures 13 and 19 it will be seen that in accordance with the power transmission assembly just described, it is necessary to revise and provide specially constructed indicators. Each indicator is generally designated by the refn orence character 116 and comprises an indicator ball 117 suitably fastened to a pair of depending legs 118 which straddle the screw-threaded portion of the cooperating propulsion shaft 104. The lower end portions of these legs are stamped or formed in order that they may have threaded connection with the shafts, whereby when the shafts are rotated the indicators will be fed along the slotted plates. incidentally, this arrangement also takes care of over-shots beyond the putting green since the resilient nature of the legs 118 allows the threads to have a ratcheting action in the event that the indicator moves to the end of the slots beyond the putting green. Of course, the method of play is not altered by the utilization of this diiierent form of power transmission and propulsion means.

Modified electro-mechanical motor control Not only do we contemplate variable forms of power transmission means and propulsion elements, but we prefer to disclose a different embodiment of Vmeans utilized for controlling the electric motor circuit, the same being within the scope and spirit of the invention and constituting the preferred construction for controlling the motor. This structure is shown in Figures to 26 inclusive.

The means under consideration has been devised with a view toward providing a single impact device which is capable of being utilized by right and left handed players. It will be remembered that in the form of the invention rst described, individual impact devices were required for this purpose. `However, in order to make the structure more fool-proof and practicable it is believed that this single device will be found superior. One of the principal parts of this revision is the horizontally disposed swingably mounted arm 119 which is pivoted between its ends as at 120. That portion 121 of the arm which extends out from beneath and beyond the table is equipped with a coupling spring 122 carrying the regulation impact golf ball 123. Carried by this portion 121 and located near the pivot is a special switch actuator 124 comprising an upstanding arcuate plate whose upper edge is shaped to provide a pair of duplicate cams 125 and 125 respectively. rThese are of equal proportion as shown in Figure 22. The actuator is secured to the arm 121 by an attaching flange 126.

That portion of the arm extending beyond the pivot and indicated at 127 terminates in a fork 128 whose arms straddle a longitudinally bowed spring carrier rod 129. The rod is anchored at its opposite ends in bearings 130. Mounted on the intermediate portion of this rod are coiled springs 131 and 132 respectively. These are oi equalised tension and bear at their outer ends against adjusting collars 133 and at their inner ends against washers 134 placed on opposite sides of the forli arms. The collars allow the tension oi the springs to be adjusted to suit circumstances. This arrangement allows the impact ball 123 to be driven in either direction. When struck by a right hand player it swings in a direction from right to left whereupon the forked end 28 compresses the spring 131. On the other hand when struck by a left hand player, the spring 132 is compressed. After the blow, the springs operate to return the arm 119 to its normal centralized position.

Electric circuit make and brake device This device is shown in detail in Figures 23 to 26 inclusive. It is generally designated by the reference character 135. It is some-what in the nature of a dash-pot structure. For instance, it comprises a vertical cylinder 136 having a special bracket 137 at its top and an upstanding guide 138 for the hollow stem 139 of a pressure relief valve 1410. The valve is normally held seated by a retaining spring 141. The valve 140 is unseated by pressure produced in the cylinder 136 through the medium of the reciprocatory piston 142. This piston is of cup-like form and is normally held down in its lowermost position through the medium of a spring 143. As shown in Figure the upstanding tubular stem of the valve is internally screw threaded to accommodate an adjustable vent screw 144.

Threaded on the lower end of the cylinder is a screw cap 145 having a series of segmental openings 146 as shown in Figure 24 and provided with a central depending guide 147. This guide serves to accommodate a sliding rod 148 provided on its bottoni with a roller 149 for cooperation with the cams 125 and 126 respectively. The guide 147 also carries an outstanding arm 150 equipped with an inner stationary contact 151 and a relatively movable spring contact strip 152. rIhe strip 152 is normally movable toward the contact 151 and electric circuit wires are connected with these contacts and in turn are adapted to be connected with the electric motor 53 and the reverse switch 74. A slidable trip element 153 is slidably mounted on the guide 147 and has its upper end in contact with the bottom of the piston and its lower end in engagement with the free end portion of the contact strip 152. This element 153 is of light weight material so that it will offer little resistance in its movement in either direction.

1n the arrangement just described it is obvious that the ball 123 may be driven either toward the right or the left. Assuming for instance that the player is right-handed, it will be seen that the arm portion 121 will swing in a direction from right vto left in Figure 21 thus compressing the spring 131. In so doing it will cause the roller 149 to ride up on the cam 124 in Figure 22. N'aturally, this will slide the rod 148 through the guide 147 thus lifting or sliding the piston 142 against the tension of the spring 143. The pressure thus produced within the cylinder will open the valve 140 against the tension of the small spring 141. This movement of elements will permit the trip 153 to lift upwardly in following the piston 142. This will also permit the spring contact 152 to bridge the contact 151 and thereby close the motor circuit. The circuit will stay closed until the trip 153 is returned to its normal position. The weight of the trip alone is not suiiicient to move the contact 152 for breaking the circuit. It is necessary that this element 153 be forced down by the action of the piston 142 returning to its normal position. This return is correspondingly slow since after the arm 119 rapidly returns to its normal centralized position, and the roller 149 drops down into the space between the two cams, a vacuum will be set up in the cylinder and will be relieved slowly by a small amount of air which enters through the adjustable vent screw 144.

It is believed that a careful consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the drawings will enable the reader to obtain a clear comprehension of the construction, the features and advantages and operation of the invention. Moreover, it is thought unnecessary to recite the rules and regulations for playing the game since these will Vary slightly but will ordinarily be modeled after the rules followed in playing the actual game of golf. Of course, in order to avoid improper operation, suitable legends will be printed on the board or otherwise significantly dis played on the rule card in order to caution the players with respect to the right and left impact devices when they are used and to the reversing switch for the motor in order to take care of over-shots. Finally, the rules will contain directions for carrying out the color scheme in order that the game may be played without confusion or mistake.

What we claim is:

l. An indoo-r golf game of the class described comprising a base having a playing field including indicia representing a miniature golf course, a plurality of distinguishable indicators independently movable in groups over a predetermined sec tor of said course, and electro-mechanical means for successively controlling and operating said indicators.

2. An indoor golf game of the class described comprising a game board having its face provided with indicia representing a miniature golf course including a plurality of successive sectors, each of which includes a teeing ground, a remote putting greenand cup, and an intervening fairway, a plurality of individual and distinguishable golf ball indicators successively movable along each fairway to and beyond the cup on said green, and electro-mechanical player-actuated means for selectively controlling and operating said indicators.

3. An indoor golf game of the class described comprising a game board having its face provided with indicia representing a miniature golf course including a plurality of successive sectors, each of which includes a teeing ground, a remote putting green and cup, and an intervening fairway, a plurality of individual and distinguishable golf ball indicators successively movable along said fairway to and beyond the cup on said green, and electro-mechanical player-actuated means for selectively controlling and operating said indicators, said means embodying an iinpact element in the form of a golf ball.

4. An indoor golf game of the class described comprising a game board having its face provided with indicia representing a miniature golf course including a plurality of successive sectors, each of which includes a teeing ground, a remote putting green and cup, and an intervening fairway, a plurality of individual and distinguishable golf ball indicators successively movable along said fairway to and beyond the cup on said green, and electro-mechanical player-actuated means for selectively controlling and operating said indicators, said means embodying an impact element in the form of a golf ball, and a manually manipulated selcctive regulating device for individually actuating said indicators.

5. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a gaine board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, an indicator simulating a golf ball movable over said course, a prime mover operatively connected with the golf ball, and player-actuated electro-mechanical switch means cooperable with said prime mover 'for rendering it effective.

6. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, a golf ball movable over said course, a prime mover operatively connected with the golf ball, and player-actuated electro-mechanical switch means cooperable with said prime mover, said means embodying an arm and an impact golf ball carried by said arm.

7. 1n an indoor game of the glass described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, an indicator in the operating means for said indicator operatively connected with said motor, an elec .ric circuit make and break device for said motor and a golf club actuated impact element for actuating and controlling said malte and break device.

9. In an indoor game of the class described, a game board having its face constructed to represent a miniature golf course including a plurality of sectors, each sector embodying a teeing ground, a putting green having a cup, and an intervening and connecting fairway, a plate ein-- bedded in said fairway and having a longitudinal slot formed therein, impelling means beneath said slot, an indicator having a portion arranged in said slot for longitudinal movement and releasably connected with said impelling means, and an electro-mechanical device for controlling and actuating said impelling means.

l0. In an indoor game of the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course including a plurality of successively traversed sectors, each sector including a teeing ground, a putting green having a cup, and an intervening fairway, a plate embedded in said fairway and extending from the teeing ground to and beyond the putting green, said plate being provided with a plurality of spaced parallel longitudinally extending guide slots, individual propelling members located beneath and in registry with said slots, a plurality of distinguishable indicators mounted for movement in said slots and releasably connected with said propelling devices, an arm carried by said board, an impact golf ball mounted on said arm, and an operating connection between said arm and said propelling members.

11. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board having a playing eld constructed to represent a golf course, an indicator movable in a predetermined manner over a selected portion of said course, and an electromechanical device mounted on said board for controlling and operating said indicator, said device embodying an electric motor, a motor control switch, a swingably mounted arm operatively connected with said-switch, and a golf ball carried by said arm.

l2. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board having a playing rleld constructed to represent a golf course, an indicator movable in a predetermined manner over a-selected portion of said course, and an electromechanical device mounted on saidv board for controlling and operating said indicator, said device embodying an electric motor, a motor control switch, a swingably mounted arm operatively connected with said switch, a golr" ball carried by said arm, and a manually regulated selective clutch structure operatively connected with said motor.

13. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board having a playing eld constructed to represent a golf course, an indicator movable in a predetermined manner over a selected portion of said course, and an electromechanical device mounted on said board for controlling and operating said indicator, said device embodying a reversible motor, a motor control switch, a swingably mounted arm operatively connected with said switch, a golf ball carried by said arm, a manually regulated selective clutch device operatively connected with said motor, and a manually set reversing switch for said motor, said reversing switch being independent of said motor control switch.

14. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board having a playing field constructed to represent a golf course, an indicator mounted on said board for movement over predetermined sectors of said golf course, an electric motor operatively connected with said indicator, a control switch for said motor, and a time controlled player-actuated impact device for actuating said switch.

15. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board provided with a playing field constructed to represent a miniature golf course, an indicator movable over selective portions of said golf course, operating means for saidl indicator including a multiple clutch and drive means, an electric motor for operating said means, a motor switch, time-controlled means for opening and closing said switch automatically, an arm connected with said last named means, and an impact golf ball car ied by said arm.

16. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board provided with a playing iield representing a golf course, a slotted plate mounted upon said board and conned within the area of one sector of said course, operating members supported beneath said board and in registry with the slots in said plates, a. plurality of indicato releasably and operatively connected with said members, a multiple clutch and drive structure including a plurality of pulleys, slidably mounted spring-pressed clutch lingers, a driving tube for said pulleys, said tube being constructed to permit said clutch lingers to be selectively engaged with said pulleys, manually regulated means for controlling the position of said clutch lingers, an electric motor, an operating connection between the motor and tube, a motorcontrol switch, and player-actuated means for operating said switch.

17. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board, a plurality of individual indicators mounted for sliding movement on said board, and player-actuated electro-mechanical means for controlling and operating said indicators comprising a multiple pulley and clutchV structure, an electric motor associated therewith, a manually manipulated selector and regulating device associated with the clutch means, a motor control switch, an arm for controlling said switch, and a golf ball carried by said arm.

18. In an indoor golf gaine of the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course including a plurality of individual sectors, each embodying a teeing ground, a putting green having a cup, and an intervening connective fairway, a slotted guide plate embedded in each fairway, individual operating elements supported from the under side of the board and registering with the slots in said plates, an electric motor having operating connection with said elements, manually regulated means associated with said motor and elements for rendering said elements selectively operable, a main control switch for said motor, and individual reversing switch for the motor, time-controlled actuating means for the first named switch, an arm connected with said means,l and a golf ball yieldably mounted on said arm.

la. In a golf game of the class described, a game board, a plurality of indicato-rs mounted for movement on said board, a multiple endless power cable and pulley drive structure for said indicators, a single electric motor operatively connected with said drive structure, and player- Mii ftending from the teeing ground to and beyond the putting green, said plate being provided with a plurality of spaced parallel longitudinally extending guide Vslots, a plurality of indicators adapted for longitudinal sliding movement in said slots, player-controlled means ior moving said indicators along the slots to and beyond the putting greeni, and manually-regulated means for causing said first-named means to operate temporarily in a reverse direction for moving the indicators back toward the cup when an cvershot occurs.

21.'An indoor golf game of the class described comprising aga-me board having its face provided with indicia representing a miniature golf course including a plurality of successive sectors, each of which includes a teeing ground, a remote putting green and cup, and an intervening fairway, a plurality of Yindividual and disitinguishable golf ball indicators successively movable along said fairway to and beyond the cup on said green, and electro-mechanical player-actuated means for selectively controlling and operating said indicators, said means embodying an 'impact element in the form oi a golf ball', and a horizontally swingable carrier for said ball.

22. In an indoor golf game of the class described, argame board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, a golf ball indicator movable in a Vpredetermined manner over individual sectors of said course, a player-actuated impact device supported from said board, an operating connection between said device and said indicator ball, said impact device embodying a horizontal arm carrying an impact ball, said arm being movable through an arc representing substantially one-half of a circle; and being movable in either direction, whereby the same arm may serve for left and right handed players.

23. In an indoor golf game of the class deeY scribed, a game board havingjts surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, a golf ball indicator movable in a predetermined manner over individual sectors of said course, a player-actuated impact device supported from said board, an operating connection between said device and said indicator ball, said impact device embodying a horizontal arm carrying an impact ball, said arm being movable through an arc representing substantially one-half of a circle, and being movable in either direction, whereby the same arm may serve for both left and right driving, and spring means associated with the arm for normally maintainingit at right angles to the adjacent edge of the table and for yieldably resisting its movement in either direc tion.

24. In an indoorgolf game of the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, a golf ball indicatorV movable in a predetermined manner over individual sectors of said course, a player-actuated impact device supported from said board, an operating connection between said device and said indicator ball, said impact device embodying a horizontal arm carrying Van impact ball, said arm being movable through an arc representing substantially one-half of a circle, and being movable in either direction, whereby the same arm may serve for left and right driving,V and spring means associated with the arm for normally maintaining it in a neutral position at right angles to the adjacent edge of the table and for yieldably resisting its movement in either of the aforesaid directions, said spring means being adjustable to regulate the sensitivity oi action of said arm.

25. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, a golf ball indicator movable over said course, a horizontally disposed arm pivotally mounted on said board and extending outwardly from the board, an impact golf ball carried by the outer end of said arm, said arm being adapted for left and right driving and being movable a limited distance in either direction, spring means for normally centering and resisting the swinging motion of the armfan electric motor supported from said game board, an operating connection between the motor and indicator ball, a normally open motor control switch, and operating means between the switchY and said arm, said switch being operable when the arm is moved either toward the left or the right.

26. 1n an indoor golf game of'the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, a golf ball nindicator movable overY predetermined sectors of said course, and a player-actuated electro-mechanical device for controlling and operating said indicator embodying a horizontally disposed arm pivotally mounted on the underside of said board ata point between its ends, one end portion extending beneath the boardv and the other end portion extending out beyond the board, the last-named end portion being equipped with an impact ball, the firstnamed end portion terminating in a fork, an arcuate rod supported from the underside of the table, the fork arms straddling said rod, an adjustable spring means on the rod on opposite: sides of the arm, whereby to normally center the arms and to resist its movement in left and right directions.VVV

27. In an indoor golf game of the class described, a base having its face constructed to represent a miniature golf course, an indicator golf ball supported for movement on said base and movable in a predetermined manner over a selected sector of said course, an electric motor supported from said base, means whereby motion is transmitted from the motor to said indicator ball, a normally open control switch for said motor, a trip element directly associated with said switch, and an arm swingably mounted in a horizontal plane on said base, an impact ball carried by said arm, and means ,on saidL arm causing proper timed operation of said trip element, said means comprising a bracket fastened to the arm 1 adjacent the pivotal point of the arm and including an upstanding arcuate part formed into a two-way cam. n

28. In a golf game of the class described, a

game board having its surface constructed to lll'f represent a miniature golf course, indicating means associated with said course, and playeractuated electromechanical means for automatically controlling Vsaid indicating means, said electro-mechanical means embodying an electric motor, a switch for controlling the motor, said switch embodying a stationary contact, and a movable spring contact normally movable toward the stationary contact, a cylinder, a spring-closed pressure-opened valve mounted on said cylinder, adjustable vent means carried by said valve, a spring pressed piston slidable in said cylinder, a cap carried by the cylinder and including a depending guide, a rod slidable in said guide and provided on its lower end with a roller, a trip interposed between the cylinder and movable spring Contact of said switch, a horizontally disposed swingably mounted arm, an impact ball carried by said arm, and a double cam device on said arm cooperablc with said roller.

29. In a golf game of the class described, a game board having its surface constructed to represent a miniature golf course, indicating means associated with said course, and playeractuated electro-mechanical means for automatically controlling said indicating means, said electro-mechanical means embodying an electric motor, a switch for controlling the motor, said switch embodying a stationary Contact, and a movable spring Contact normally movable toward the stationary Contact, a cylinder, a spring-closed pressure-opened valve mounted on said cylinder, an adjustable vent element carried by said valve, a spring returned piston slidable in said cylinder, a cap carried by the cylinder and including a depending guide, a rod slidable in said guide and provided on its lower end with a roller, a trip interposed between the cylinder and movable spring contact of said switch, a horizontally disposed swingably mounted arm, an impact ball carried by said arm, and a double cam device on said arm cooperable with said roller, together with adjustable spring means cooperable with said arm for maintaining the arm in a normally set starting position.

30. In a golf game of the class described, a body constructed to represent a golf course, a swingably mounted arm, an impact golf ball carried by said arm and arranged to be struck by a golf club, means on said golf course for recording and indicating the result of the drive, additional means operatively associated with said arm and said recording means for automatically controlling and operating the indicating means, said additional control and operating means embodying an electric motor, and a switch structure for controlling the motor to cause the motor to continue to actuate the indicating means, while the impact ball is returning to its normal starting position.

31. In a golf game of the class described, a base constructed to represent a golf course, an indicator movable on said base, propulsion means for said indicator, driving means for said propulsion means comprising a rotatably mounted sleeve provided with diametrically opposite slots, a worm carried by said sleeve, a pulley mounted for rotation on and with said sleeve, said pulley having a key equipped hub portion cooperable with said slots, a core member slidable in said sleeve, spring-pressed clutch fingers carried by said core member and cooperable with said slots and keys in said hub, manually manipulated means for regulating the position of said core member, an electric motor, a worm mounted on the motor shaft and operatively connected with the rstnamed worm gear, a control switch for said motor, and player-actuated means for controlling said switch.

32. In a golf game of the class described, a base having a playing eld constructed to represent a golf course, an indicator mounted on said base, player-actuated electro-mechanical means for controlling and automatically operating said indicator and embodying a player-regulated selective drive and clutch structure embodying a pair of spaced standards terminating at their upper ends in bearings, a slotted worm drive sleeve mounted for rotation in said bearings, a worm gear carried by said sleeve, a plurality of driving pulleys mounted on the sleeve between said bearings and provided with toothed hub portions cooperable with said slots, a longitudinally slidable and rotatable core member in said sleeve, spring means cooperable with said core member to normally hold it in a retracted position, springpressed clutch iingers carried by said core member and cooperable with the slots and toothed hub portions of said pulleys, a manually manipulated regulating device comprising a vertically disposed oscillatory shaft, a pointer carried by said shaft, an operating knob on said shaft associated with the pointer and a cam-segment carried by the intermediate portion of said shaft and having operating connection with said core member for adjusting the position of the core member to render said pulleys selectively operable with said worm sleeve.

33. In a game of the class described, a base, a slotted plate mounted upon said base, a rotatably mounted feed screw mounted on the under side of the base and located beneath a complemental slot in said plate, means for rotating said feed screw, an indicator slidable along said plate and comprising a golr" ball symbol and a pair of depending resilient legs extending down through the slot and having portions operatively connected with said feed screw.

FREDERICK L. FOX. FRANK C. GIBSON. 

